Truck and Transport Mechanic
1 Introduction to Truck and Transport Mechanics
1-1 Overview of the Truck and Transport Mechanic profession
1-2 Importance of safety in the workplace
1-3 Introduction to heavy-duty vehicles
1-4 Basic principles of vehicle mechanics
2 Vehicle Systems and Components
2-1 Engine systems
2-1 1 Internal combustion engines
2-1 2 Diesel engines
2-1 3 Engine components and their functions
2-2 Transmission systems
2-2 1 Manual transmissions
2-2 2 Automatic transmissions
2-2 3 Clutch systems
2-3 Suspension and steering systems
2-3 1 Suspension components
2-3 2 Steering mechanisms
2-4 Brake systems
2-4 1 Hydraulic brake systems
2-4 2 Air brake systems
2-5 Electrical systems
2-5 1 Battery and charging systems
2-5 2 Ignition systems
2-5 3 Lighting and signaling systems
3 Maintenance and Repair Procedures
3-1 Preventive maintenance
3-1 1 Scheduled maintenance tasks
3-1 2 Inspection and testing procedures
3-2 Diagnostic techniques
3-2 1 Use of diagnostic tools and equipment
3-2 2 Troubleshooting common issues
3-3 Repair and replacement of components
3-3 1 Engine repair and overhaul
3-3 2 Transmission repair and overhaul
3-3 3 Brake system repair and overhaul
3-4 Welding and fabrication
3-4 1 Welding techniques
3-4 2 Fabrication of vehicle parts
4 Specialized Systems and Equipment
4-1 Hydraulic systems
4-1 1 Hydraulic pumps and motors
4-1 2 Hydraulic control systems
4-2 Air conditioning and heating systems
4-2 1 Refrigeration cycles
4-2 2 Heating and ventilation systems
4-3 Auxiliary power units (APUs)
4-3 1 APU components and functions
4-3 2 Maintenance and troubleshooting of APUs
5 Safety and Environmental Regulations
5-1 Workplace safety practices
5-1 1 Personal protective equipment (PPE)
5-1 2 Handling hazardous materials
5-2 Environmental regulations
5-2 1 Emissions control standards
5-2 2 Waste disposal procedures
5-3 Compliance with industry standards
5-3 1 ISO standards
5-3 2 National and international regulations
6 Professional Development and Career Pathways
6-1 Continuing education and training
6-1 1 Advanced courses and certifications
6-1 2 Industry conferences and workshops
6-2 Career opportunities
6-2 1 Employment in various sectors
6-2 2 Entrepreneurship and business management
6-3 Networking and professional associations
6-3 1 Joining industry associations
6-3 2 Participating in professional networks
3.1.1 Scheduled Maintenance Tasks Explained

3.1.1 Scheduled Maintenance Tasks Explained

Key Concepts

Preventive Maintenance

Preventive maintenance involves performing regular tasks to prevent potential issues before they become major problems. This includes tasks such as oil changes, filter replacements, and lubrication of moving parts. The goal is to ensure the vehicle operates smoothly and to extend its lifespan.

Example: Think of preventive maintenance as brushing your teeth daily. Just as regular brushing prevents dental issues, regular maintenance prevents mechanical issues.

Routine Inspections

Routine inspections are periodic checks to identify any signs of wear, damage, or potential problems. These inspections cover various components such as tires, brakes, lights, and fluid levels. Early detection allows for timely repairs, ensuring safety and reliability.

Example: Consider routine inspections as a regular health check-up. Just as a doctor checks your vital signs, a mechanic checks the vehicle's vital components to ensure everything is in good condition.

Scheduled Servicing

Scheduled servicing involves performing specific tasks at predetermined intervals, as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. These tasks include engine tune-ups, transmission services, and brake system checks. Scheduled servicing ensures that the vehicle meets performance standards and complies with safety regulations.

Example: Think of scheduled servicing as a school timetable. Just as you attend classes at specific times, the vehicle undergoes servicing at specific intervals to keep it in top condition.

Record Keeping

Record keeping is the practice of documenting all maintenance activities, including dates, tasks performed, and parts replaced. This information is crucial for tracking the vehicle's maintenance history, planning future services, and ensuring compliance with regulations. Proper record keeping also aids in diagnosing issues and estimating future maintenance costs.

Example: Imagine record keeping as a diary. Just as you write down your daily activities, you document the vehicle's maintenance activities to keep a comprehensive log of its history.